Split decision

Backcountry boarders no longer need to feel left out in the cold when it comes to demo-ing new equipment. This week, Backcountry Experience will be holding two events specifically geared toward backcountry riders who travel up on two boards but down on one.

“Despite the growing popularity of the sport, there are very few opportunities for splitboarders to demo new gear, so we’ve decided to offer local riders the chance to try new gear – both uphill and downhill,” Backcountry’s marketing guru Margaret Hedderman said.

If this is the year you leave the lifts behind to earn your turns, the first event is for you. “Splitboarding 101” takes place tonight, Dec. 13, from 6:30 – 8 p.m., at Backcountry Experience (1205 Camino del Rio.) Brought to you by Weston Splitboards, the clinic will go over choosing your splitboard, and how to set it up and transition between touring and downhill mode. It will also delve into the basics of backcountry trip planning, reading the CAIC website and avalanche awareness.

Then, from 6 - 8 p.m., Sat., Dec. 15, Backcountry and Weston will host the Durango Splitboard Demo at Chapman Hill. The event will feature a splitboards from Weston as well as bindings from Spark R&D, skins from Pomoca and Black Diamond, and packs from Osprey. The event will also feature a Splitboard Touring clinic with Jack Klim, of Kling Mountain Guides. Backcountry will provide hot cocoa and soup.